What does an increased internal rate of return signify for an investment project?

An increased internal rate of return (IRR) signifies higher anticipated future cash flows for an investment project. The IRR is a financial metric used to evaluate the attractiveness of an investment. It represents the discount rate at which the net present value (NPV) of future cash flows equals zero. When the IRR increases, it typically indicates that the project is expected to generate cash flows that are more substantial or occur sooner than previously anticipated.

A higher IRR suggests that the investment is likely to yield greater returns relative to its costs, which implies that the expected cash inflows from the project will be higher. This can be a strong indicator of the project's financial viability and overall profitability. It is essential to note that while IRR is a useful indicator, it should be considered alongside other financial metrics and qualitative factors when making investment decisions.